Can dogs eat chocolate? And cats?
Toxic. Darker and baking chocolate are the most dangerous, but no amount is safe.
Toxic. Cats rarely seek it out, but it is just as dangerous for them.
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs and cats metabolize far more slowly than people do. The darker the chocolate, the higher the dose: baking chocolate and cocoa powder are the worst offenders. If your pet ate chocolate, call your vet with the type and amount eaten; treatment is most effective early.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Racing heart
- Restlessness
- Tremors
- Seizures
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control people-foods guidance, Merck Veterinary Manual, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).